Posted on Tuesday, November 21st, 2017 by University Police under Archived.

VIRTUAL KIDNAPPING SCAM

Citizens across the United States are being targeted for a variety of internet and telephone based scams as part of an ongoing pattern of criminal activity. The most recent scam is known as “virtual kidnapping” and involves the suspect calling a victim and advising them a loved one or acquaintance has been kidnapped and demanding an immediate ransom.

On, Tuesday, November 14, 2017 this happened to a UNCG student and her parents.

Please take appropriate precautions, trust your instincts if they tell you something isn’t right, and don’t fall victim to these scams.

If you suspect a real kidnapping is taking place or you believe a ransom demand is a scheme, contact your nearest FBI office or local law enforcement immediately. Tips to the FBI can also be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov. All tipsters may remain anonymous.